Merry Christmas!!

Merry Christmas to you and yours! Happy New Year too! Love, Nolan, Amanda, and Emery!

Day 5: Books for 2011

Here's a list of books I've yet to get but can't wait to get started!

• The Heroine's Bookshelf by Erin Blakemore
• When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead
• Hooray for Amanda and her Alligator and I Broke My Trunk by Mo Willems
• Emily of New Moon series by L.M. Montgomery
• Savvy by Ingrid Law
• One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp
• Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
• Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll
• A Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie by Alan Bradley
• The Sherlockian by Graham Moore
• The Imperfectionists by Tom Rachman
• Home Tonight by Henri Nouwen
• Traveling Mercies by Anne Lamott (re-read, will probably lead me to re-read her others)
• Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick
• Sarah's Key by Tatiana de Rosnay
• The Thousand Autumns of Jacob de Zoet by David Mitchell
• A Whole Nother Story by Dr. Cuthbert Soup
• The Sixty-Eight Rooms by Marianne Malone
• Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford
• Sweet Valley Confidential by Francine Pascal (yeah, Elizabeth and Jessica Wakefield are back! I'm reading this out of sheer curiosity and a step back into my past!)
  

What was your favorite book of 2010? Did I miss it, because if so I'd love to add it to my list for 2011! What books are you looking forward to in the coming year?

Day 4: Amanda's Favorites

• Committed by Elizabeth Gilbert (thought-provoking and funny!)
• The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Shaffer & Barrows (LOVED)
• Before Green Gables by Budge Wilson (long-time fan of Anne so this was a fun dip into her supposed history before she met the Cuthberts)
• The School of Essential Ingredients by Erica Bauermeister
• The Help by Kathryn Stockett
• Timber Ridge Reflection Series by Tamera Alexander (good stories of redemption even though they're a bit on the 'romantic' side)
• I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith (technically this is a young adult novel but it's one of my favorites for the year so it's here!)
• Marta's Legacy by Francine Rivers (two-book series. You shouldn't read the first unless you're going to push through the second. It's a good story of legacies but it's a bit heavier than her other books)

turns out, this list is a bit smaller because I got caught up in all those young adult books! Plus this year I tried out a lot of new authors from people's 'must-read' lists and not all of them were as promising as they sounded. Live and learn!

Day 3: Young Adult Favorites

Emery and I frequent our local library. Puzzles and games are set up for kids her age right next to the young adult books. They are so tempting that I can't help myself. I say it'll be nice to have a list of books ready for Emery when she's old enough but really it's just because I can't resist. Here are some of my favorites from this year:

• Clementine by Sara Pennypacker. (oh my. If you love Junie B. you'll adore Clementine)
• The Penderwicks by Jeanne Birdsall (reminiscent of Little Women. Love these girls & the sequel)
• The Birthday Room by Kevin Henkes (it was a big year for Henkes in our home! look for Olive's Ocean and Words of Stone too!)
• The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart (LOVED! and it's a series!!)
• The Wednesday Wars by Gary Schmidt (excellent book!)
• Umbrella Summer by Lisa Graff (also enjoyed her The Thing About Georgie)
• The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate by Jacqueline Kelly (I just liked it)
• Under the Lilacs by Louisa May Alcott (it was also a big year for Alcott around here. Loved her Eight Cousins and it's sequel Rose in Bloom)
• Neil Flambe and the Marco Polo Murders by Kevin Sylvester (fun mystery)
• The Willoughbys by Lois Lowry (i love the use of big, silly words and the power of siblings)
• Masterpiece by Elise Broach (great story of friendship and fun little mystery)
• Cornelia and the Audacious Escapedes of the Somerset Sisters by Lesley M.M. Blume (the title's a bit ridiculous but the story is great fun!)
• The Mysterious Howling by MaryRose Wood (honestly, the jury is still out on this one. I feel it needs another read-through. I want to like it though!)
• Up a Road Slowly by Irene Hunt (simple but great story; it reminded me of an Alcott novel)

I hope you're enjoying these lists as much as I am! haha! If not, don't worry, only 2 more days!

Day 2: Books from the Year

Emery asked me to read these to her repeatedly:

• Corduroy by Don Freeman (also Beady Bear)
• We Are in a Book by Mo Willems (also the Cat the Cat books)
• Chalk by Bill Thomson
• The Little Mouse, the Red Ripe Strawberry and the Big Hungry Bear by Audrey Wood (also The Napping House and King Bidgood's in the Bathtub)
• Jamberry by Bruce Degan
• In the Night Kitchen by Maurice Sendak (I almost have this one memorized)
• LMNO Peas by Keith Baker
• Pete's a Pizza by William Steig (I don't know how I missed this one as a child, I love it!)
• Children Make Terrible Pets by Peter Brown
• Shark vs. Train by Chris Barton and Tom Lichtenheld
• Big Rabbit's Bad Mood by Ramona Badescu
• Leonardo the Terrible Monster by Mo Willems

My favorite books I read to Emery:

• My Garden by Kevin Henkes (also Birds and A Good Day--I love the colors in these books)
• Hurry! Hurry! by Eve Bunting (so sweet about welcoming a new life!)
• The Golden Egg Book by Margaret Wise Brown (sweet and simple like all her stories)
• All in a Day by Cynthia Rylant (love the illustrations and the message!)
• Over at the Castle by Boni Ashburn
• Miss Brooks Loves Books and I Don't by Barbara Bottner
• A Sick Day for Amos McGee by Philip Stead (I love these drawings!)
• Can You Cuddle Like a Koala? by John Butler
• Another Important Book by Margaret Wise Brown
• Mommy's Best Kisses by Margaret Anastas
• A Book of Sleep by Il Sung Na
• The Incredible Book-Eating Boy by Oliver Jeffers (see also The Way Back Home)

Day 1: Books of the Season

I decided to make our blog all about books this week as I've been recapping our favorites from the year. Today I'd like to share Emery's favorites from this Christmas season:

• The Christmas Magic by Lauren Thompson
• Morris' Disappearing Bag by Rosemary Wells
• Snow by Cynthia Rylant
• Mouse's First Christmas by Lauren Thompson
• How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Seuss (the movie's a bit too old for her)
• Where's Prancer? by Syd Hoff
• The Night Before Christmas by Clement C. Moore
• Lost and Found by Oliver Jeffers
• The Mitten by Alvin Tresselt
• The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats (Emery reminds me of Peter in her red coat!)
• That's Not My Snowman by Fiona Watt and Rachel Wells (wish I'd seen the others too!)
• The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg (so much better-and faster-than the movie!)
• Bear Snores On by Karma Wilson
• Jingle Bells by Iza Trapani (touches on holiday traditions around the world)
• Olivia Helps With Christmas by Ian Falconer

Go patronize your local library and check them out!! What are some of your favorites Christmas/Winter books?

Snow!

Children love snow better than anyone does, and they

never complain as they pull on their red boots and mittens and make plans

to catch wet flakes on their tongues

from Snow by Cynthia Rylant (a favorite this season)

In November I couldn't wait for December to start. Time dragged on as I was awaiting the first. Now it's December 13 and I feel like we're finally slowing down a little! We've been enjoying our Advent activities. So far we had our dance party, made salt-dough ornaments, attended a friend's wedding, watched some holiday movies (what's your fave?), and finally had some fun in the snow yesterday!

And the snow, while it is here, reminds us of this:

that nothing lasts forever except memories. (also from Snow)

We've been holding to that statement and worked on made some lasting memories! Hope your December plans are going well! Take care and keep warm!

we can start!

basket of Christmas books. You never know when a story can come in handy!

Several years ago, I bought a set of marble people representing different nations around the world. My grandma passed away in October and while the family was picking favorite items, Nolan spotted these and thought they'd go with our other set. Every time I walk in the kitchen I get to have a little reminder of Grandma!

our first advent calendar. Nothing fancy but full of fun activities for us!

our tree! If you'll notice at the bottom of the tree, we let Emery put on her own ornaments this year. My OC tendencies want me to rearrange them for her but I'm fighting the urge. So far, I'm winning.

December is here! I have been anticipating this day to begin our December Daily and our advent calendar. Over the past few weeks my brain has been filling with ideas to celebrate Christmas each day in December and I'm excited that we get to start! Some of the activities in the advent calendar I'm looking forward to are:

• making and decorating Christmas cookies for our friends/neighbors
• a surprise that's in store for the grandparents
• Christmas music dance party in the living room
• the kid's program at Church. I can't wait to see Emery and her playmates sing! (or possibly cry on stage)
• going on a tour of Christmas lights around town

I am excited to watch the season play out from Emery's perspective. So far, since Sunday it's been her honored duty to turn on the Christmas lights. She hasn't forgotten a morning yet! Also, it seems like she's surprised every morning that the tree is up. She walks from her room to the living room and says, "ohp! look, Mommy!".

Now I want you to tell me what you're looking forward to the most! Do it--I love reading your comments!

who knew november would be fruitful?

there's a lot i'm excited about right now so i needed to make a list. you understand.

last night we saw Sesame Street Live. The joy and laughter that was on Emery's face was priceless!! Grandma spoiled and got Em a figurine set that has since followed us into each room all day today. All of them have to come too

tonight i made these:

my, they were delicious. bad news of the night: I burnt my hand by accidentally grabbing the handle on the cast-iron skillet and had to apply some aloe with lidocaine on my hand. worse news: as I was eating I accidentally got some lidocaine on my tongue. It went numb.

In other news, I'm getting excited about a project starting December 1st. It's called Daily December 2010 and I'm going to take pictures of our everyday life in December. I'll also be trying to focus on celebrating the Christmas season and have fun projects for Emery. Then I'm going to upload the pictures onto a Shutterfly album and have it printed. If it goes well, I'll have to try it yearly. I got the idea from here. My goal in broadcasting the project is that I'll feel convicted to follow through! I think it'll be a great form of memory keeping but it has an end goal so it'll be easier to keep up with!

I was also inspired by this post yesterday! How fun would all of our dinners be if we did this?! I've only recently opened up to the idea that just because you're not Monet (or even Mo Willems),it doesn't mean you can't make some fun doodles of your own. I think Emery would love it too! Now to find a giant roll of paper and a place to store it...

Last but not least, Harry Potter comes out tomorrow! (or midnight tonight but I can't handle that). Nolan and I are pumped. No, we won't be dressing up but we're going to have a great time regardless!

hoping you're november is as fruitful as ours is turning out to be!

celebrate [again!]

Derek,
Thank the Lord I only have one brother. I would hate to have to pick a favorite. You inspire me to be a better person in all areas of my life. Plus, you are downright funny and refreshing to be near. You are a blessing to those around you. I enjoy watching you be a devoted husband, a fantastic brother, a playful uncle, a grateful son, a dedicated worker, and a good man. I'd be happy to call you friend and instead I get to call you brother! Lucky me.

Love you! Happy Birthday!

i love this pic of you two. thanks for making her a priority in your life. Emery loves her De-Deokay, i searched for a better picture of us. honestly. i think one exists from bethany's wedding but i don't have a copy. priority #1 of this christmas is getting better sibling pictures so that next year's post doesn't bring this pic back. agreed?

celebrate!

Mom & Dad,
Happiest of anniversaries! We didn't get a card in the mail to you in time so we thought to make a more public statement! Congratulations on another year of marriage! I don't know what you have planned for tomorrow but we hope you get a chance to remember your past and make exciting plans for your future! It should include a vacation! (Kids or no kids is up to your discretion) We are grateful for your dedication to each other and to your family! We love you! Love, Nolan, Amanda & Emery
see you on the 19th!

pillow talk

2 conversations bedside:

Em: i two

Me: yes, sweetheart, you're my big two year old.

Em: i was a baby?

Me: yes

Em: in you tummy?

Me: yes, you were in Mommy's tummy

Em: i pop out

Me: yes, yes you did

a few moments later Emery was putting her hand up by her face, near her boo-boo

Me: Emery, leave your boo-boo alone

Em: I holding it

Me: don't pick it, you can rest your hand there

Em: it sleeping. my boo-boo sleeping too

She proceeded to fall asleep with her hand over her face, holding her weary boo-boo

Sweet Emery Ruth,

As I cuddled in your bed with you (praying it didn't collapse underneath me) I couldn't help noticing how enormous you are. I held your cousin Elliott today and he's only a little guy. You were like that not long ago. You are such a big, beautiful two year old. You melted my heart as you were falling asleep tonight. You would close your eyes and then smile a contented smile knowing your mommy was lying beside you. I know your daddy thinks I probably spoiled you by doing that but I couldn't help it tonight. You're invitation (aka demand) for me to rest my head on your back was too good to pass up. I loved that I thought you were asleep and then 'Stay Awake' came on the cd player and you popped open your eyes and said, "Mary Poppins." You never miss a beat. Thanks for giving me this memory tonight. I had to write about it quickly so it didn't get away from me! I look forward to spending the day with you tomorrow and hearing you laugh, sing, and probably try to boss us around. Sweet dreams, sweet girl. Momma loves you!

rest in Him

We still have a bassinet in our room. To be honest, most days I don't even notice it; it's become just another piece of furniture I twist my hip to avoid hitting. It's still in our room mostly due laziness but also due to bad timing. After we moved Emery into her crib I asked Nolan to move it to the garage. He insists to this day there's no room for it out there.
Time passed and the bassinet still sits there. I kept thinking we'd fill it again soon so it did seem pointless to move it to the garage but so far it still sits empty. Well empty of a real life, it's actually inhabited by a few of Emery's spare toys.
The reason I'm bringing any of this up is due to the fact Emery pulled out the mattress today and played with it in the living room. It was her baby's bed. As I watched her love on her baby; wrapping it with a blanket, sweetly kissing it on the forehead, and settling down to read Baby a story, I couldn't stop my mind wandering into thoughts of Joel.
Recently I've been introduced to new people and had frequent conversations about babies. These people don't know about Joel and I have mixed feelings about that. On the one hand I do not want to be the awkward, misty-eyed woman who can't seem to get over her miscarriage. On the other hand, my experience with Joel was so life-altering that I can't believe people aren't aware of it. When my miscarriage does come into conversation, I do feel like I sound callous or unmoved. The truth is it was horrific, disarming, and the worst pain I've ever felt. However, I am successfully on the other side of the event so as I am explaining it to others, I am able to say that I'm 'okay'. Do they want me to describe it in detail? No. Do I feel they think I'm either faking my calm or not giving enough severity to the situation? Absolutely.
Thankfully the Lord came to my aid as I was slipping into a more depressing mindset.
The verse in Genesis 16:13 came to the forefront of my thoughts. "You are the God who sees me." Instant reprieve. God is the one who sees me. He saw me through the miscarriage as it was happening, he saw me through the ugly-cries and despondency. He sees me now as Nolan and I cautiously plan to start again. He is the one that assures me that however brief Joel's existence was, his life is purposeful. His is a perfect love.
I can find rest in the knowledge that my God knows me, sees me, and he reigns.

I started getting sentimental after my mom left from a great three-day weekend. I was thinking how blessed I am to have the parents I have. I was also thinking how much of my personality is made up of a mix between the two of them. I get my love of reading and music from my mom and I get my love of trivia, competition, and fixing problems from my dad. As I was washing Emery's sippy cups I wrote an ode to Mom & Dad and planned to type it up. I'd probably get best daughter award for the year (sorry Bethany. You were probably out of the running anyway. Remember June?). Well I had more sippy cups to wash than I had ideas about that post so I started thinking more. I remembered that I have this brother that is awesome too! Seriously, you should meet him. His only downfall is that whole living in Florida business. I really miss him. Then started thinking about how much I miss him and not only him but my other family I don't see enough. Like Mom & Pop Kitterman. Actually all the Kittermans. I miss them and was thinking the holidays are too far away but I'm looking at the calander and don't know when I will see them before Thanksgiving!
By this point I was finished with the sippy cups and my dryer buzzed at me. Emery's clothes were finished so I piled them into the basket and took them and my thoughts to her room. I picked up her clothes and got a strong whiff of our fabric softener. I just thought, "I LOVE being Emery's mom." Especially when she walked into the kitchen and said, "Amanda, come with me." Or she's been hysterically laughing and saying "Ba-na-na" just like Elephant & Piggie.
I also spent a good deal of time thinking about my wonderful husband too. We had a great weekend together too, even getting to slip away for a movie while Mom stayed with Emery.
My plans to write an ode to Mom & Dad just didn't seem to do justice to all the people I was thinking of and I didn't understand why I was being so reflective.
Then I remembered the verse that stood out to me from my Bible study. I had written it on an index card and stuck it on the fridge and of course, didn't think about it again for the rest of the day.

Turn my eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to your word.

Psalm 119:37

Recently I've been consumed with thoughts of insecurity, inadequacy, discontent. I had already acknowledged these thoughts and turned them to God. Then he brought me that jewel of a verse and filled my mind with the things and people that mean the most to me. Thank you, Lord for the gift of reflection.

our sweet girl

For my own memory bank and to hopefully put a smile on your face, I'd like to share with you some of my favorite things about my favorite daughter. oh me and lists...

• she loves Jessie from Toy Story. she can 'yee-haw' with the best of 'em
• she's understanding the meaning of the word, "much" so she'll tell me she loves me "sooo much" or when we dip her under the shower head she says, "too much"
• she loves to take any opportunity to "scare" you or yell 'peek-a-boo"
• the way she says her name: "emmy roof kitteman"
• she enjoys sweet tea (i water it down) and her favorite way to drink it is in her tea-cups from her play kitchen
• she's seen the original Willy Wonka a couple times. Lately she's taken to singing the Oompa Loompa song intermittently throughout the day. It's like her thinking music.
• she not only recognizes the library building but excitedly exclaims, "liberry!"
• whenever she walks down our hallway she runs her finger along the panelling-just like daddy
• when she thinks she's about to get in trouble or has recently been reprimanded, she instantly turns on the charm. She gets in your face with kisses and hugs tight or whispers, "love you." It's a little ridiculous and I'm totally on to her.
• she asks to "brushy my teef" about 5 times a day (except she doesn't want to when we ask her to at night; that's besides the point)
• she's ours

**post-edit: Recently I've had the "we don't eat our boogers" chat with Emery. I've emphasized the importance of a tissue and she responded well to my message. Today we were running about town and when I was unhooking her seatbelts she said, "i holding it" and looked down towards her legs. I thought she was talking about her seatbelt because I noticed her clenching her legs around it so I simply smiled and said, "good job." She looked proudly at me and said, "yeah, i holding booger". Sometimes there's no word for such pride...

sweet and sour

-the weather has been nice enough to turn off the air and leave the windows open. keep coming, fall!

-i woke up in a great mood despite the fact it was 7:30 and my husband was leaving for a week in Iowa

-emery leaked through her diaper in the night

-i was in super productive mode...it's been a while

-our dang roofers still didn't sweep up all the nails in the backyard

-emery and i got dressed up (dressed up=out of sleepwear) and ran around town to enjoy the beautiful sunshine!

-it is a beautiful day but the sun it hot enough to remind me that it's still August. Not the glory of late September-October. I was reminded around time #7 of getting emery out of her car seat and putting her shoes back on her stinky feet

-every time i put emery in her car seat she kissed whatever part of my arm she could reach and sometimes squeezed my arm in a tight (very tight) hug. she also repeated the kisses when i pulled her out of the carseat wherever she could reach--a lot of mid-thigh kisses were involved. How sweet is she?!

-remember that husband who left us for a vacation in iowa? well he left his nametag on the fridge and needed me to please bring it a.s.a.p.! (he even asked first by saying, "how much do you love me? how is that fair?! also, i thought that only worked when i said it but apparently i've used it enough times that he realized it's power...)

-we ventured to walmart and not only did the bank there replenish their supply of suckers, but Ruffle's Sour Cream & Cheddars were on sale! For $1.98! This is how i know God hears my every thought, even the ones not addressed to him. Two, or possibly three days ago i was also in walmart loathing the fact that Lays is always cheaper than Ruffles and i wish they'd just lower their price so i can eat their delicious chips-it happened! --sale that even surpassed Lay's sale! victory!

-we were in a hurry to get nolan's nametag to him so we stopped by mcdonald's (so glad i'm not keeping a food journal). i ordered chicken nuggets for the first time in a while and asked for barbecue sauce. also, miss em wanted a 'cheebooger' so i splurged to get a happy meal since right now they have cute dolls as the toy. the attendant said, "is this for a girl or boy" i proudly responded, "girl." She got a Batman toy. Not a cute Madame Alexander doll. Don't get me wrong, I love the Bat but...why did she ask me and not listen?

-my mom is coming tonight! it's the Art & Balloon fest around here so we get to see the balloon launch tonight! Emery will love it! Once last week we saw a hot air balloon floating near our house and Em hasn't forgotten about it! She's been loving that we've kept our windows open so she can stand guard of the neighborhood. She climbs onto her little wooden chair and looks for balloons! (as a sidenote, emery is so cute. anytime she hears people talking, kids running, or a train whistle, she perks up and runs to the window to see what's happening! i know it sounds like i'm describing a pet but give her a break, she's two!)

-remember those chicken nuggets i mentioned earlier? remember the barbecue sauce? i pulled over to the gas station before heading to nol's workplace. (by this time, i've also been up for 4.5 hours, ran around town, and haven't eaten anything so those nuggets are manna). I pull open the bag, grab the sauce packets....Sweet & Sour Sauce. Downside: not really a fan of the S & S

Upside: it inspired me enough to come back to the blog!

happy may day!

it is May, folks. May. Where did April go? I haven't written since March 18 and as embarrassed as that makes me, I'm going to move on and pretend like I've been writing awesome invisible posts all this time. they were impressive, trust me.

We just got back from vacation on Wednesday. When I look at the pictures I think, "oh look at those great memories." When I avoid the pictures and think of the past week I think "I'm so glad to be home."

Emery actually was a great toddler considering her regular routine was nowhere to be found, she was in a new situation every day and she spent about 1000 hours in the car in Orlando traffic. She was more patient than me I think (which is not that impressive for those of you who know me well).

If there was ever I time I could have redeemed a free teleportation card, Tuesday would've been my day. Monday evening Nolan and I got food poisoning from some seafood and were both up sick all night. Then we had to drive back to Orlando from Lake Wales and kill some time waiting for our flight. I love the restaurant Pei Wei and we had waited until Tuesday to go so by the time we got there I couldn't enjoy the lettuce wraps I'd been dreaming of because I was still nauseous from the night/morning before. Then our flight didn't leave until 3:30 so by the time we made it through security and found our gate Emery was in full-out tantrum stage. She cried and cried getting on the plane, finding our seats, and take-off. Finally she fell asleep but only for 45 minutes. We could entertain her in 10 minute spurts but in the times between she was super whiny and Nolan & I were both still not feeling our best. We finally landed at Midway and I thought we were in the clear. Then Emery vomitted all over the airplane seat, her new Mickey & Minnie plush toys, and more importantly her father. All over. Nolan was done. I wanted to laugh because I thought, "seriously? this day is ridiculous" but I held back; too soon to joke. Plus I wasn't the one covered in toddler-sick. Luckily she only was sick from having too many liquids, not the flu or food poisoning (thank you Lord).

Deep breaths...it's over and we're home now and we have adorable pictures of our almost-2 year old.

In other news, my sister is getting married. In 6 weeks. My sister-in-law and I are planning the wedding. In 6 weeks. I found out Tuesday. I'm not promising any more posts this month from here on out! I'm still processing my thoughts on the matter but really, who has time to process? I'm planning a shower and wedding in 6 weeks!

For now, just enjoy a few of my favorite pics from last week's trip! I've updated on Shutterfly but I wanted to pick out my faves just for you! Happy May Day!

glorious sunshine

The last two days have been glorious. GLORIOUS! I love it! We've had our windows open all day today and while it could stand to be a bit warmer, I will not complain! While I was making lunch I let Emery play with her new bouncy balls in the backyard. I was a little apprehensive about this because she's only 20 months but the yard is fenced in and I checked on her every 5-10 seconds from the kitchen window.

I bought the flourescent bouncy balls at Walmart this morning. 4 for $1 and Em was loving them. She was entertaining to watch. I feel like she's a very particular child. By that I mean she knows exactly where she wants to put each item and concentrates on accomplishing her goal. So while I was stirring the mac & cheese she would hold all 4 balls and place them in a pile on one spot of the yard. Then she'd study them; maybe pick one or two up to examine before placing them back down. Then she'd grab the whole group and move them to another spot in the yard. Sometimes she transported one by one. At one point she was moving the group from the back of the yard towards the front one at a time. She would grab the pink one, walk it all the way past the sidewalk and then into it's new destination (on a piece of grass that looked oddly like the one she just moved it from). Then she'd head back for the green one, the orange one, and the yellow one. Each time I checked on her she smiled, waved, and shouted, "mommy!" but kept on task.

Somehow, even with her careful methods she misplaced the yellow one. After her nap we headed back out to look for it. I thought we might split up and 'cover more ground' but she just followed right behind me saying, "umm..nope. ummm...nope" She's a regular bloodhound; we still haven't found the ball. I figure Nolan will find it later in the season with the lawnmower.

I just love experiencing the small things with her. I love to see how she interacts with nature, toys, and any thing she comes in contact with. Even though she's a happy baby, she seems to take things seriously. When she's trying to figure something out, she furrows her brow, holds her hands up and doesn't give up asking until I've given a satisfactory explanation. I'm excited (and a little nervous) to see how this will play out as she grows up.

Yesterday for dinner we met Dad at 'our place' in the park for a picnic! Here are some pictures but you can see more at Shutterfly! We hope you're enjoying the warmer weather as much as we are!

give me words to speak

sesquipedalian
whirligig
simplicity
gregarious
compel
myth
resilient
pumpernickel
intentionality
mercy
radiant
I love words. This list is a few of my favorites with no pattern. Some I like because of their meaning, some for emotional attachment, and some just because they sound fun. In a recent book I read one of the characters has a word wall in his house. It's a chalkboard in the kitchen and he writes words that he either wants to look up, laugh at, or teach about. I love that idea! Words are powerful; they evoke life.
At the conference I attended Saturday I listened to the speaker's compelling story of letting her son go to the Marines. She told us about a letter she received from him, telling her how his drill sergeants are verbally breaking him down. She wrote back to him, writing words of affirmation; reassuring him of his value as her own son and more importantly, as a child of God. After his graduation he was able to talk with her freely. He told her that in his toughest moments of physical and mental testing, the words she spoke over him and poured into his childhood gave him the strenght to carry on.
This story made me think of words spoken to me. Some have shaped my life, for the good and bad. Spoken words encourage me in my daily struggles. Luckily I have a dear friend who speaks words of affirmation to me at least on a weekly basis and I am renewed by them.
I am challenged to think of the words I am pouring over Emery. Words create memories and each day I interact with her, with songs, loving words, and even some shouting words, I am creating memories. As she grows into a young woman, she will hear a lot of other words from the world. Will I have spoken enough affirming words that will drown out the Deceiver's? Are my words the same as God's? I most certainly hope so.
Thankfully we have a terrific guide of written words that brings forth life and renews the spirit.

baby love

Emery turned 20 months yesterday. That means that in only four short months we're going to be under the same roof as a two year old. Probably is not going to be that much different than she is now because she's already stubborn, loves the word "no" (although to her it's 'nope'), and has crazy mood swings that our heads spin.
But today she is being extra cute. Possibly to remind me that even when she is an official two-year-old I will still love her.

• Nolan stayed home today because I woke up with another awesome sinus headache and Em was running a slight fever. While they looked settled into Sesame Street in the living room, I decided to go back to bed. Emery laid down with Daddy for a bit but then rolled off the couch and asked, "where, mommy?" Nolan told her I was laying down so she grabbed her bowl of cheerios (dry) promptly told her daddy she was coming to be with mommy. He asked, "why don't you stay in here with Daddy?" She looked at him, considering, "ummm, nope." Not rudely, just matter-of-factly.
• When she joined me in bed (after turning the TV on in our room) she made her self comfortable. After a few minutes she leaned over and kissed me on the head. I felt much better of course.
• She has an affinity for wearing obscure items on her head. She grabbed my big mesh bag and naturally threw it over her head and walked up and down the hallway. Then she gave out kisses to Nolan & I threw the bag. Yes, of course I took a picture:




She loves to "color." Give her a crayon, a pen, a pencil, a marker, a highlighter: she's your best friend. She grabbed her notebook and a highlighter and had some fun this morning. When the highlighter was making it on her clothes and face I asked her to hand it over. She didn't like that so she started to running away into the living room. When she heard me stand up to come after her she threw the pen behind her and ran to the couch for comfort. I was laughing so hard (as was Nolan) that we couldn't get mad at her.

• She has a water gun. I have no idea where it came from and I don't know how she learned to use it (not with water). She just knows you're supposed to point it at people she she ran between me & Nolan pointing the gun (upside down) saying, "psshh, psshh" and cracked up when we pretended to get wet.
• I love the way she picks up on words so easily now and tries hard to use the same words we do. Today for nap time she wanted to read In the Night Kitchen, a new favorite and said, "cock-a-doo-doo book mommy". The Cock-a-doodle-doo part is only one small part of the book but she obviously is paying attention to the details and grasping concepts.
• Every time she sees my camera she wants to watch the video we took of her last night. We taped her singing "The Wheels On the Bus." She loves watching the video and sings along like it's the first time she's hearing it.
  Okay. I know that was a lot; and it's only nap time. Who knows what's in store for the afternoon. The sun is out so I'm hopeful!
  

what a friend

Oh, what peace we often forfeit,

Oh, what needless pain we bear,

All because we did not carry

Everything to God in prayer!

We sang this great hymn yesterday morning and I've been thinking about these particular lyrics ever since. I love how true they are.

On a less serious note, a sweet woman from our church gave Emery a potty chair yesterday. We haven't really started potty training yet but it was sweet of her to spoil us like that. It's a great one that can be broken down to have the seat on the "big" toilet and the chair becomes a stepstool; I love versatility!

Emery just loves the box. She is thrilled with the potty and likes to sit on it (but not use it) but she's mostly enjoying the box right now. Today she's used it as a drum set and a hat. Earlier when I was typing up my 'review' blog I watched her walk down the hallway in search of me with the box on her head. Got to love that.

Just thought I'd share what's been on my mind and what our sweet girl has been up to! Hope you enjoy the first day of March!! Spring is coming--I just know it!

rememberings

The sunlight streaming into my room this morning reminded me that spring will eventually come. I'm so ready. Plus, I was looking at pictures earlier this week (I haven't ordered pictures since a little after Em's birthday) and I found a couple favorites that made me excited about sunnier days. enjoy and have a great weekend!

only a short time

Tonight as we were cuddling on the couch after dinner watching Ratatouille, I paused. We have no way of knowing how long our life as a threesome is going to last. I'm not pregnant and not planning on being so in the very near future but one day I will be. The three of us work so well together. Em fits perfectly in between us, snuggled up on her daddy's chest. Even if we weren't planning on having more children, Emery continues to grow. One of these days she's not going to want to sit on our laps.
I just wanted to take a moment to be grateful for our lives together right now. Every day is not easy but it's certainly a blessing. One more day of her sweet kisses, hilarious antics, and her arms reaching up, "mommy, up. up" One more day of his awesome kisses, his sweet smiles across the dinner table, and him saying, "i love you."
I am so grateful.

Valentine merry-making

Yesterday I visited Holly's site to see if we won the tu-tu--no such luck! Sad day! I was disappointed but she also posted a valentine's idea that I thought looked easy and fun. You should see her site here to see what the valentine's were supposed to look like and then check out our version:I didn't get a close up but I believe that even from this vantage point, you can see ours did not turn out the same way. First of all, I just saw the pictures and thought, "oh that looks simple, I can recreate that" without really reading the directions. It probably would've helped if I saw you should let one dry before trying to paint the second hand-print. Also, her girls are a little older than Emery. Our friend Nikki was visiting with us and we couldn't have accomplished what we did without her. Nikki & I each had a plate with paint and sat on either side of Em. Then we painted her palms (while she kept trying to grab the paintbrushes) and took turns placing her hands on the paper. After we made the valentines we let Emery have at and she thoroughly enjoyed the paint. She decided to make herself even prettier:We had a blast! Check out the other photos on Shutterfly!

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

all in the timing

Yesterday I pouted.
You see, two years ago when we lived in our apartment and Emery was still a dream away, we had a snow day. It is one of my favorite memories of newlywed bliss. We slept in, made breakfast together and then Nolan trekked to the nearest movie store and gas station to bring back entertainment and beverages. It was a wonderful day.
Fast forward to yesterday. The evening before all anyone could talk about was the snow we were going to be getting. Everyone speculated snow days and I hoped they were all right and we could recreate those warm memories with the addition of Emmy. Everyone was partially right. It did in fact snow but not enough to keep Nolan home. Therefore, as any mature adult, I pouted. It wasn't pretty.
This morning I woke up with a horrendous sinus headache. I also woke to the realization that Nolan hadn't told me goodbye. Or at least, I didn't remember him telling me goodbye. The little bit of hope started to build and as I rose out of bed, I noticed his shoes by the door--he was home!! I was excited but also relieved because I did not know how I was going to make it through the day with this headache. Plus today was the reconvening of Lapsit at the library--I didn't want Emery to miss that.
Nolan heard me stirring so he met me in the kitchen to explain why he staying home. He had lovingly decided to help me out since he knew I wasn't going to be well today. Wanna know how he knew? He also lovingly recorded my sleep on his phone last night. Much like the pouting, it wasn't pretty. I apparently kept him up most of the night. (also, I deleted the evidence--too bad)
He was so great today; waiting on me, playing with Emery, and providing for us! He even took Em to Lapsit with all the other moms! He looked so handsome with a snowsuit-clad Em on one arm, the diaper bag and a "Real Moms"-printed bag full of library books in another and aviators on his face. What a modern dad! If I hadn't already made myself comfortable with a heat compress in my bed I might've just kissed him!
All in all, we each made it through the day and I can say now that I'm glad he didn't stay home yesterday. Perfect timing.

**As a sidenote, I'm trying to win Emery this adorable tu-tu from Holly at The Peas in Our Pod. You can check it out here. Wouldn't Em look fabulous!!

team kitterman

Right before dinner tonight I was reading a friend's blog. She commented on her appreciation for the teamwork between her and her husband as parents. It made me think of how Nolan & I interact with each other, particularly where Emery is concerned. We do pretty well together but of course there is conflict at times. As I was reading Elizabeth's post I was asking God to show me a specific way that I can be grateful for our little 'team.' The words 'Ask and you shall receive' were never more relevant than this evening.
**Backstory: last night we spent the night at my folks' where Emery is always spoiled. I'm happy about that but it's not always fun to get her back on schedule. Plus, she's teething so her schedule has been completely off today and she's easily thrown (emotionally speaking).**
Nolan made dinner (scrumptious mac & cheese w/ hot dogs) while Emery and I watched a video (I'm excited about these videos because it makes me feel like I'm at Tiny Tots all over again). Everything was fine; she was tired but cuddly and we were meltdown free.
Then came time to sit at the table and eat. While at grandma's she likes to sit on grandma's lap to eat her meals. That doesn't fly at home and normally she's okay with it. Tonight; not so much. She cried. and cried. and cried--the ugly cry with heaves, real tears, red face, and a lot of snot. Plus she kept reaching out for me and sobbing, "mommy, mommy." Kills me. Literal pain in my chest.
At first, we tried to talk over her. Yeah right. Then I tried to make excuses for her: her day's been off, she took too short of a nap, she's killing me, it'll just be this once, and then I jabbed a low blow and said it was easier for him because she wasn't calling his name. I know. Awful but he let it go (such a good man). He reassured me that we need to stand our ground and she'll be okay. I wasn't buying it and neither was Em. Then we tried reasoning with her.

19-month-old in full meltdown mode + two reasonable but annoyed parents = no meshing

I picked her up and held her but didn't let her eat. I just held her and told her I wasn't going anywhere but she needed to be a big girl and eat her dinner. So I placed her back in her booster. More sobs and now I was also feeling like a betrayer. I had to leave the room so I did.

Tag-team. Nolan took over. He didn't pick her up. He let her cry but talked soothingly to her and then tried to make her laugh. I could hear the early attempts failing miserably but he didn't stop. He's so good at standing his ground which is great because I'm almost always ready to give it up. Eventually her good nature won out and Daddy got her to laugh despite her best efforts to stay upset. It was funny to listen to the change between sobs, sniffles, half laughs that turn back into sniffles, and then full on laughter. I sat and hid in the office for a bit and when Nolan called me back in, all was well (except her sweet tear-streaked face that re-broke my heart). She ended up laughing with us and finishing her plate.

The best part was when she rubbed Nolan's arm (with ketchup hands) and leaned over to kiss his mouth (with her own ketchup-drenched lips while also placing her ketchup hand on his face)No harm done. Dinner finished. Laughter found. Kisses for everyone. Thanks, Nolan for taking one for the team!

*as a sidenote and plug for birthday presents (on Em's behalf, of course) those videos would be an amazing gift. Just saying.

we did in fact come back

The Magic House lived up to its name! The past weekend was a blast despite a minor hiccup! Our hotel decided to tack on a $100 'deposit' since we use our debit card instead of a credit card so our funds were more limited than we'd planned. Luckily we thought to bring all of our gift cards and made great use of them! We bought breakfast and snack foods from Target to keep in our room which saved us a small bundle in order to splurge on a delicious meal (complete with dessert) on Saturday evening. Here are some highlights of our trip:

• Friday was spent at The Magic House and we all had a great time! There were plenty of hands-on exhibits to keep Emery occupied. Nolan & I were able to sit back (a little) and simply watch her explore. We can't wait to make a return trip when she's older.
• Saturday we all slept in and then had the entire pool to ourselves! That's a benefit of staying at a business hotel over a 'family-friendly' one!
• Saturday evening we ate at the Cheesecake Factory. Good glory, that was a wonderful meal. After the meal we saw a movie (thank you mom for the amc gift cards). We sat in the front row in case Emery was too disruptive but she was great. We sat her in her own seat and she commandeered the giant Sprite. We don't normally let her drink soda so she was in her own little heaven. For most of the movie this situation suited us all just fine until Emery let out a very loud burp and wound up spilling a great deal of the Sprite all over herself! That's the beauty of being on vacation though--no one will know you and you get to leave the next day! We just laughed it off and enjoyed the rest of the movie!

Hope you all have had great weeks and get to go on a little vacay of your own soon!

*I haven't posted pictures yet but that's the plan for when Em's asleep (if Sesame Street wasn't on for an hour you wouldn't even be reading this yet!). Check out Facebook or Shutterfly in the near future! Much love to you!

surprise mini-vacation!

Nolan's been extra busy with work the past few weeks (in case you didn't pick up on that in earlier posts) so we decided to break away to St. Louis! We're going to hit up The Magic House at the children's museum. The website shows lots of fun hands-on exhibits that we're hoping Emery enjoys (and we do too!). Other than that, we have big plans to eat good food, swim, possibly get a little shopping in but mostly RELAX ALL TOGETHER!
We'll let you know how it goes! Have a great weekend!

there's a life lesson in here somewhere

today I finished another book. It's Committed by Elizabeth Gilbert and I already wrote a review for it over here (what? didn't know I had this website? surprise!). Anyway, this book has been consuming my extra time and thought process for the last week or so. Lately, I have been reading prefaces and acknowledgments more often than not. When I was in high school my favorite part of reading new books was learning about the new author first (maybe not the extensive note-taking part though). It seemed to me that you could understand, or at least appreciate a book more when you know where the author is coming from. Once I got to college and we no longer had reading classes I missed this. I think that's where the prefaces and acknowledgments passion stems from.
All this to say that as I was reading the end of Committed I read Elizabeth's note to her sister Catherine Gilbert Murdock, author of the Dairy Queen series that I came to love only a month ago! I was so surprised! I knew the author of Dairy Queen's name was Catherine. I knew Elizabeth's last name was Gilbert. I knew she had a sister named Catherine because she references her several times in Committed. Never made the connection. I love finding family connections; it's a secret (or not so secret now) pleasure of mine. I just like to see how other family's live, how they're similar or different, even how all their names sound together. Weird, I know.
It just got me thinking, what can we learn when we take the time to read until the very last page?

love letter for a friday

Dear Husband,
Hi. Remember me? I'm the needy brunette you married three years ago. I miss you and wish you could come home right now. I want to see you. Really see you. You know, without that romantic glow of the computer screen lighting your face or that attractive 'work-is-consuming-my-life' frenzy in your eyes. Can you make that happen?

Remember Emery? She's our adorable 18 month old. I don't like talking on the phone so I haven't been able to tell you all the crazy things she's been doing the last couple days. For instance, today at lunch she was taking spoonfuls of applesauce and wiping them on her face for the sole purpose of wiping it away with a napkin. Then, after lunch she used a washcloth and wiped away every surface she could imagine including the carpet, the walls and my back (in that order). All along she was singing "keen up, keen up". Enchanting, I know. Yesterday we played 'Ring around the Rosies" approximately 100 times and I thought I was getting vertigo. She demanded that we watch Barney & friends simultaneously. She didn't want to take my word for it that we (just the two of us) could actually play that game without Barney's help but she wasn't having it.

She misses you too. I already told you about her finding your computer mouse. Then when she was 'helping' me with laundry she would yell, "Daddy!" every time she picked up a shirt of yours and proceeded to squeeze it tightly!

I should make one things clear though. I am so proud of you. You know I appreciate staying home with Em and I know you work so hard. I also know somewhere in my brain that you would rather be with us than work. Sometimes I forget it in the moment; I think I misplaced it under all the neurosis and doubt. You amaze me with all the technical things that are far beyond my comprehension and understanding. You understand though and that is why you are so good at what you do. I am proud to have a husband that works hard and is in demand for his skills. That's hot, babe!

So, without further ado and on behalf of myself and our sweet girl; I have one plea. Come home. We would be much obliged.

Love, your wife

'Poppin' in

Several months ago Nolan and I set about deep cleaning our house. Not a fun time for me because I have terrible allergies. Turns out, sweeping dust into the air sets of said allergies (which is why I avoid cleaning in general).
In the midst of all this merry-making I texted my friend and asked if she had Mary Poppins' number. If she couldn't come snap her fingers at least she'd have a peppy song to pass the time. Sadly, my friend had misplaced Mary's number and we were on our own. Later that evening; however, Mary Poppins appeared on our doorstep in the form of the 40th Anniversary 2-Disc set. No explanation why she wasn't around earlier though.
Fast forward to a few weeks ago when Emery spent time in Wellington. She fell in love with Mary while watching along with Grandma. Mom said she watched it several times. She loved it so much, in fact, that shortly after Em & I were reunited she dragged me into Aunt Bethany's room and turned the video on. Now we're more thankful than ever that Mary appeared at our door that night. Who knew we'd need it?!
We've watched Mary, Burt and the gang dance around 3 times already this week. I've heard the "wooden leg named Smith" joke 3 times and I still smile. I've heard the same gentle lessons told through catchy, witty songs 3 times and still sing-along. I have to say, I love it. What a great movie! Emery doesn't always sit still through cartoon movies (except Wall-E and Ratatouille) but she's mesmerized by Mary Poppins! She's a girl after my own heart! I can't wait to share more classics with her!
On behalf of Emery, I encourage you all to watch Mary Poppins! (or "Poppin!" as Em calls it) You won't regret it!

something more fun

So that last post was not such a happy one. I know you can't always tell someone's mood while reading but let me just inform you that I probably should've just scratched that last one and only put on this one. Oh well.

Anyway, thought I'd cheer up the blog a bit by adding these pictures of Emery. During her diaper change she decided she would rather shed her warm, fuzzy footie pjs for a more simplistic outfit. Probably because it is easier to raid Mommy's cabinets with minimal coverage. enjoy!

p.s. please focus only on the sweet baby and not my unfinished walls. my kitchen will be painted one day. i just know it. just don't pass this on to my mother-in-law.

wow. It's already well over a week into 2010 and this is my first post. Those were not my intentions but things in this Kitterman household have been a bit crazy since New Year's. Last week we enjoyed several days of leisure as Emery spent time in Wellington with Grandma Neecee and Papa Rick. Nolan went to work as usual and I spent time sleeping, reading, and eating. Three of my top favorite things. As a couple we also saw 3 movies, stayed out past midnight on New Year's Eve (without worrying about a babysitter or waking up early in the morning!), and simply enjoyed each other's company. It was splendid.
This week has been a completely different household. Emery's back; which is great because we missed each other. She hasn't even had a hard time readjusting to Mommy's rules after a week of Grandma's spoiling. Except she won't sit in her chair to eat meals. She wants me to hold her and I'm not sure what to do about that power-struggle. Anyone got any ideas?
Also this week, Nolan was getting up at 6 am and not coming home until around 7 pm because of the conference at work. We definitely appreciate the overtime but it was hard not having him be around other than to eat and sleep.
To be honest, I was going to write more and I was hoping I could draw some spiritual insights from this hard week but really it just left me exhausted. Plus, Emery is screaming in the kitchen due to that aforementioned struggle.
Hope you all enjoy your weekend and have been able to usher in the new year well!